WAIPUKURAU

New Zealand Tablet, Volume XXXI, Issue 17, 23 April 1903, Page 15

WAIPUKURAU

For years the Catholics of Waipukurau have suffered for want of a church, and a few months ago it was determined to supply this want. Accordingly it was decided to hold a bazaar in order to raise a portion of the funds necessary. Mr. Henry Gaisford generously presented a site for the proposed church, and the ladies of the congregation, assisted by many friends, set to work and got together a fine collection of useful and ornamenr tal articles for a bazaar which was opened on Saturday, April 11. The Rev. Father Johnston (says the ' Waipawa Mail') introduced Mr. Gaisford, who had kindly consented to open the bazaar. He was pleased to see so many present and to notice the large number who belonged to other denominations.. They knew from history that the characteristics of Christians were love and charity, for it had been said in ancient times, ' See how these Christians love one another.' Love and charity characterised all branches of the Christian Church. They had ample evidence of it that night, for had not Mr. Gaisford made the Catholics of Waipukurau a present of a valuable section, on which to erect a church ? On behalf of the Catholics of Waipukurau he would publicly acknowledge the deep debt of gratitude they owed that gentleman for his generous gift. He also desired to thank the Rev. Mr. Martin for his presence there that evening. The Rev. Mr. Martin had, by his liberality of view, demonstrated he was a true Christian gentleman. Mr. Gaisford said he was proud and gratified at being allowed to open the bazaar. As they were aware, he had been connected with Waipukurau and its people for a number of years. He was glad to see that the Catholics of the town had originated a bazaar to raise funds for the erection of a church, and he wished them every success in their endeavor. He hoped to see the long-needed church erected quickly and that it would stand out boldly, a feature of the town. He had much pleasure in declaring the bazaar open. No. 1 stall was presided over by Mrs. Baskiville, assisted by Mesdames Wynn, Cullen, and Sullivan, and Misses Hunt (2), Simpson, and Jolley. Many beautiful works of art were to be found on this stall. No. 2 stall also made a brave show with pictures, mirrors, and beautiful specimens of needlework. Mrs. Hands was in charge and had capable and attractive attendants in Mesdames Fitzgerald and Fogarty and the Misses Curreen, Coe, Bradbury, and Fogarty. Not the least attractive display was that of the produce stall, over which Miss Winl<ne held sway. Miss Winlove received able and willing assistance from the Misses Bird, B. Winlove, Hunt, Bailey, Jones, and Jolley. The refreshment stall was, of course, a strong centre of attraction. Mrs. Maher presided here, and her efforts were ably seconded by the Misses K. Baskiville, L. George, and Shaw.

During the evening a capital concert programme was presented, which met with the hearty appreciation of those present. The Waipawa Brass Band also contributed a number of selections in good style and to the evident enjoyment of the audience.